The Signs and Symptoms of Back Pain

The human spine is comprised of more than 30 vertebrae which are held together by muscles, ligaments, and tendons and they are cushioned by shock-absorbing disks. A complication that arises in any part of the spine can result in back pain. In some cases, back pain could be nothing more than an annoyance. In other people, their back pain can be utterly excruciating and completely debilitating.

The Common Symptoms of Back Pain

Most people will experience some form of back pain at some point during their lifetime. The fact is that there are a wide variety of factors which can cause back pain, and in many cases it is the result of long-term bad habits or self-inflicted. Other causes of back pain can include sports injuries, pulled muscles, and accidents. Although the causes can be varied, most cases of back pain can be prevented.

The common symptoms of back pain can include:

Piercing localized pain in the lower back, upper back, or the neck – often occurring after attempting to lift heavy objects or engaging in other strenuous activities. (Experiencing sharp pain in the upper back could also be a warning sign of a impending heart attack or other life-threatening complication)

A persistent stiffness or aching that occurs somewhere along the spine, anywhere from the tail bone to the base of the neck.

Back pain that is radiating from the lower back to the buttocks, continuing down the back of the thigh, and all the way through the calves into the toes.

Chronic ache in the middle or lower back, which can become more pronounced after sitting or standing for a long period of time.

The inability to stand straight without experiencing severe muscle spasms that wrack the lower back in pain.

Seeking Additional Medical Attention

If any of the following symptoms should occur, then you should contact your doctor immediately to set up an appointment:

If you are experiencing pain that is stretching down along your back and all the way down the back of your leg, you could actually have another condition known as sciatica.

If you start to experience tingling, numbness, or weakness in your legs or arms, this could be a signal of potential damage to your spinal cord.

If your pain is accompanied by a fever, burning sensation during urination, or strong-smelling urine, then you may have actual infection.

If your pain starts to increase when you bend over or cough, then this could be a signal of a herniated disk (this can be quite excruciating).